‘Lisabi: The Uprising’ and Burna Boy-Backed ‘3 Cold Dishes’ Secure Best Film, Best Director Nods

Nollywood is celebrating a major win on the continental stage after two of its flagship productions, ‘Lisabi: The Uprising’ and ‘3 Cold Dishes,’ bagged multiple nominations at the prestigious 21st Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) 2025 ceremony. The nomination list, unveiled in Lagos on Saturday, October 11, confirmed Nigeria’s strong showing in the continent’s most respected film awards.

The historical epic, Lisabi: The Uprising, has emerged as the leading Nigerian contender, securing a total of seven nominations. Directed by Niyi Akinmolayan, the film—which chronicles the legendary 18th-century Yoruba hero Lisabi and his pivotal role in leading the Egba people’s resistance against subjugation—earned nods for major categories including Best Film and a personal nomination for Akinmolayan for Best Director. Lead actor Lateef Adedimeji also received a nomination for Best Actor in a Leading Role.

Joining the epic in the top categories is the pan-African thriller, 3 Cold Dishes. Executive-produced by Grammy winner Burna Boy and directed by Asurf Oluseyi, the film, which addresses the harrowing subject of sex trafficking and the redemption of three survivors, is also nominated for Best Film and earned Asurf Oluseyi a nomination for Best Director. The cast’s brilliance was recognized with an ensemble nomination for Best Actress in a Leading Role, including Nigerian star Osas Ighodaro.

The two Nigerian films will vie for the highly coveted Best Film award against six other strong entries from across the continent, including the overall nomination leader, Burkina Faso’s Katanga: Dance of The Scorpions, which secured 10 nominations, as well as productions from South Africa, Algeria, Uganda, Ethiopia, and Ghana.

With multiple nominations across technical and acting categories—including Visual Effects and Make-Up for Lisabi, and Cinematography and Editing for 3 Cold Dishes—Nigerian cinema has solidified its global footprint. All eyes will now turn to the main AMAA 2025 ceremony scheduled for November 9, where the winners will be announced.